Is chayote a pear?
What Is Chayote Squash? Chayote (Sechium edule), also known as a mirliton squash, is a warm-season perennial fruit from the gourd family. Due to its light-green skin and pear shape, chayote is also known as a vegetable pear.
What kind of fruit is chayote?
squash
Chayote is a thin-skinned squash originally from Mexico. A member of the gourd family, the bumpy green fruit is commonly available in the Southwestern United States, but it remains a novelty item in much of the country. Chayote squash (Sechium edule) is technically a fruit but is eaten like a vegetable.
What fruit looks like a pear but is not a pear?
Wikimedia/David Monniaux The chayote looks a bit like a pear on a real bad day, but is actually a fruit that is native to Mesoamerica, a member of the gourd family.
Where is chayote from?
Because it originated in Mesoamerica, chayote plants grow best in semi-tropical climates though it has been adapted to a number of growing conditions in warmer climates. The largest source of chayote continues to be Central America, including Costa Rica, Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and Guatemala.
Is chayote good for the kidneys?
The whole plant including the fruit, stem and leaves contains multiple nutrients and has anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in the treatment of high-blood pressure, kidney stones and indigestion. Chayote can also help support weight loss efforts, as it is low in calories and fibrous.
Is chayote a vegetable?
VegetableChayote / Fruit or Vegetable
What is chayote fruit?
Chayote (pronounced chahy-oh-tee) is a light green, pear-shaped fruit with a single, large pit and edible flesh and skin.
What is the nutritional value of chayote?
Chayote has a high water and fiber content and is relatively low in natural sugars, making them fairly low in calories compared to other fruit. Also, chayote is prized for its high levels of potassium, vitamin C, and amino acids. The leaves and fruit have diuretic, cardiovascular, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Can chayote be eaten raw?
Its mild flesh lends itself to a variety of uses and seasoning possibilities. Chayote can be eaten raw, too, and peeling is generally not required.
When to plant mirlitons (chayote)?
Planting Mirlitons (Chayote or Vegetable Pear) Plant mirliton fruit in late winter in a protected area for planting outside after danger of frost. Skip to Main Content